You sure are one wonderful husband. I understand how your wife feels if her friend has a really nice machine, however there are many nice machines out there that do not cost an arm and a leg. She really can get started and do alot of wonderful work on this type of machine. I just purchased a Brother XR1355 at costco for taking to class very inexpenise but quite a nice machine. Good luck to you and I hope your wife makes many beautiful quilts. It is a really fun hobby!!!